A Cherry Chocolate Chip Cake is one of those desserts that strikes the perfect balance between comforting homestyle baking and a touch of indulgence. The richness of butter and chocolate combines with the natural tartness of cherries, creating a cake that is both light and satisfying. It is simple enough to make on a weekday yet elegant enough to serve on special occasions. Imagine the scent of buttery batter baking with sweet chocolate and juicy cherries filling your kitchen—it’s the kind of treat that makes people gather around the table. This recipe is baked in a casserole-style dish, which gives it a rustic charm and makes it perfect for slicing into squares or bars to share. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or cooled with a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is bound to become one of your go-to recipes when cherries are in season.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 125 g butter (7 tbsp), softened

• 125 g sugar (2/3 cup)

• 2 eggs

• A pinch of salt

• 250 g flour (1 cup + 2/3 cup)

• 8 g baking powder (1 tsp)

• 130 g milk (3/5 cup)

• 100 g chocolate chips

• 400 g cherries (2 cups, pitted and halved)

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease or line a 32×23 cm (12×9 inch) casserole dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until pale, light, and fluffy. This creates the base texture of the cake.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until a smooth batter forms.

5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.

6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared dish.

7. Arrange the halved cherries across the surface of the batter, pressing them lightly so they sit nestled inside.

8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares or bars.

10. Serve warm or cooled, plain or with whipped cream, custard, or ice cream.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 12 servings)

• Calories: 250

• Protein: 4 g

• Fat: 11 g

• Carbohydrates: 34 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 18 g

• Sodium: 95 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a true crowd-pleaser because it brings together flavors that nearly everyone enjoys. The butter-rich crumb has the right level of sweetness, while the chocolate chips give pockets of indulgence in every bite. The cherries bring a natural tartness that cuts through the richness, keeping the cake balanced and light. You’ll love that it’s an easy, one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require special equipment, yet the result is bakery-worthy. Whether you’re baking for your family, a potluck, or an afternoon tea, this cake will always be a winner.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Fruit and chocolate have long been a favorite pairing, but cherries hold a special place in baking traditions across Europe and North America. Cherries are often baked into pies, tarts, and clafoutis in French cuisine, while chocolate chip cakes became popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century. This recipe is inspired by the rustic, casserole-style cakes baked in family kitchens, where seasonal fruits were folded into simple batters. By combining cherries and chocolate chips, this cake pays homage to both classic traditions while creating something modern and indulgent.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cherries are the star here, bringing juiciness and vibrant flavor. Fresh cherries work best, but frozen or canned cherries (well-drained) can also be used when fresh ones are not available. Chocolate chips are a versatile ingredient; semisweet provides a balanced taste, while milk chocolate makes the cake sweeter. Butter is essential for creating a moist crumb, and using real butter instead of margarine gives the cake its rich flavor. Flour and baking powder provide structure, while eggs help bind everything together. Finally, a dusting of powdered sugar gives a classic bakery finish that makes the cake visually appealing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This cake keeps well for a few days if stored correctly. Once completely cooled, store slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you prefer to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm it in a low oven. The cake can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, especially during summer.

Common Variations to Try

There are countless ways to customize this cake to your taste. Try swapping cherries for raspberries, blueberries, or diced apples for a seasonal twist. Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to enhance the flavor. For a richer version, drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking. A streusel topping made of butter, sugar, and flour can be sprinkled on before baking for added texture. If you prefer a more indulgent dessert, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs beautifully with hot drinks like coffee, cappuccino, or tea, making it a perfect afternoon snack. For dessert, serve it with a glass of cold milk or a creamy latte. If you want to make it part of a larger dessert spread, it goes wonderfully with fruit salads or a platter of cheeses and nuts. For special occasions, you can serve it warm with custard or a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream.

Health Benefits

While this cake is indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which support immunity and digestive health. Dark chocolate chips (if used) provide flavonoids that may improve heart health. Eggs supply protein and essential vitamins, while milk contributes calcium. Of course, this is still a dessert, so moderation is key, but it’s nice to know that you’re also getting a bit of nutrition along with the sweetness.

Conclusion

The Cherry Chocolate Chip Cake is one of those recipes that feels timeless, bringing together the comfort of simple home baking with the indulgence of chocolate and the brightness of cherries. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and endlessly adaptable depending on what you have on hand. Whether you bake it for a casual family treat or dress it up for a dinner party, this cake is sure to impress. The combination of juicy cherries and melty chocolate in a tender crumb is irresistible, making it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.